This is in response to your letter regarding cancer warning labels for formaldehyde and products containing formaldehyde.

Although the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is conducting rulemaking with regards to formaldehyde and a final rule is due Fall 1987, it would be inappropriate to stay enforcement activities at this time for labeling requirements under the Hazard Communication Standard. The Hazard Communication Standard requires employers to evaluate the chemicals they produce and the information concerning their hazards be transmitted to affected employers and employees within the manufacturing sector.

Presently, there are several valid, positive studies indicating human carcinogenicity. Accordingly, label warnings stating the carcinogenic potential of formaldehyde is required under the Hazard Communication Standard and therefore is not, as you state, an ad hoc enforcement action by the Agency.

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